North Iliniza

North and South Ilinizas are located about 55 km Southwest of Quito. Originally, there was one volcano, which exploded in a massive eruption that split the mountain in half a very long time ago. The two peaks are separated by a saddle and are about 2 km away from one another. There is a small refuge between the two peaks: Iliniza South is icy and hard to climb. North Iliniza is rocky and a lot easier.

Itinerary

The ascent of the North peak involves only a modest gain in altitude. The route is from the west side of the mountain, with some easy scrambling below the summit. From the top there are spectacular views of Iliniza South, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo. Fifty years ago North Iliniza still had a glacier, but it has completely melted in the last few decades. So now it is rocky and quite easy to climb.

Day 1

Pick up at Quito at around 9:00

Travel for 2 hours to the Iliniza Ecological Reserve

3 hour hike up to the hut

Safety talk and walk around during the afternoon

Early dinner at 18:00

Day 2

Climb Iliniza North leaving at 05:00

Descend from mountain to the hut

Rest, and packing

Descend to the vehicle

Return to Quito

Important Note: This schedule is subject to change due to unforeseen difficulties.